The Best Classic RPGs Worth Revisiting in 2024

1. Chrono Trigger

Release Year: 1995

Overview: Chrono Trigger has been heralded as one of the greatest RPGs of all time, blending innovative gameplay mechanics with a rich narrative and multiple endings. Players travel through time, shaping the past and future of the world.

Why Revisit? With its turn-based combat and engaging story, Chrono Trigger offers both nostalgia and depth. The remastered version available on various platforms retains the classic charm while enhancing graphics and sound, making it accessible yet authentic for new players.

Key Features:

• Time Travel Mechanics: Players can visit different eras, impacting the storyline significantly.
• Active Time Battle System: Combines strategy with real-time action, keeping combat engaging.
• Charismatic Characters: Each character comes with unique abilities and compelling backstories.

2. Final Fantasy VII

Release Year: 1997

Overview: Final Fantasy VII introduced 3D graphics and cinematic storytelling to the RPG genre, setting a benchmark that many games still strive to meet. The story follows Cloud Strife, a mercenary battling against the mega-corporation Shinra.

Why Revisit? The recent Final Fantasy VII Remake revitalized interest in the original game. The nostalgic elements paired with modern graphics and gameplay mechanics make it worth experiencing the original for a fuller understanding of the story’s roots.

Key Features:

• Memorable Characters: Each character has distinct personalities and growth arcs that resonate with players.
• Epic Soundtrack: Composed by Nobuo Uematsu, the music enhances the emotional depth of the story.
• Expansive World: Midgar and its surrounding areas offer a detailed environment that’s full of secrets and lore.

3. Baldur’s Gate II: Shadows of Amn

Release Year: 2000

Overview: Baldur’s Gate II is a classic CRPG set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe, offering deep storytelling, party management, and strategic combat.

Why Revisit? With the enhanced edition available, players can experience improved graphics and additional content while still enjoying the compelling narrative and rich character development from the original game.

Key Features:

• Character Customization: Extensive options allow players to create a unique hero or heroine.
• Compelling Side Quests: Richly woven throughout the main narrative, these quests offer depth and dimensionality to the player’s experience.
• Dynamic Dialogue System: Decisions influence character relationships and story outcomes, enhancing replayability.

4. The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind

Release Year: 2002

Overview: As one of the defining titles in open-world RPGs, Morrowind presents an expansive world ripe for exploration and discovery.

Why Revisit? The modding community has kept Morrowind alive, enhancing graphics and game mechanics. Its open-ended gameplay encourages exploration, allowing players to create their own unique stories.

Key Features:

• Immense Freedom: Players can choose their path, guiding their character based on preference rather than a linear narrative.
• Complex Factions: Join various guilds for distinct quests that add depth and flavor to the experience.
• Rich Lore: The extensive history of Morrowind enriches the game world, giving players a deeper connection to the narrative.

5. Planescape: Torment

Release Year: 1999

Overview: Known for its unique setting and philosophical depth, Planescape: Torment challenges the player’s understanding of identity and choice.

Why Revisit? The Enhanced Edition introduces quality-of-life improvements while maintaining the original’s profound storytelling and complex character interactions.

Key Features:

• Narrative-Driven Gameplay: Rather than focusing on combat, the game rewards exploration and dialogue.
• Unique Setting: The Planescape universe provides an intriguing backdrop filled with bizarre locales and characters.
• Character Development: Players can significantly influence their character’s personality and body through decisions and encounters.

6. Suikoden II

Release Year: 1998

Overview: Suikoden II offers a compelling tale of war, politics, and the bonds of friendship. Players must recruit 108 characters to build their own army and combat tyranny.

Why Revisit? Often overshadowed by other RPG giants, Suikoden II’s strategic gameplay and emotional story make it a hidden gem worthy of appreciation, especially with recent re-releases.

Key Features:

• Character Recruitment: Building your army involves finding and recruiting characters, each with unique backstories.
• Engaging Turn-Based Combat: Strategy plays a vital role in both one-on-one and large-scale battles.
• Emotional Resonance: The game tackles themes of loyalty and sacrifice, ensuring a lasting impact.

7. Xenogears

Release Year: 1998

Overview: Xenogears is an ambitious RPG that combines traditional turn-based combat with mecha elements and a complex narrative that explores philosophical themes.

Why Revisit? Its ambitious storytelling, combined with a unique battle system (featuring character combat interspersed with mech fights), makes it a fascinating relic to re-examine.

Key Features:

• Complex Narrative: The story explores themes of faith, redemption, and psychological struggle.
• Innovative Battling: Players switch between character combat and Gears (mechs), adding variety to gameplay.
• Memorable Soundtrack: Yasunori Mitsuda’s compositions add depth to the game’s emotional landscape.

8. Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

Release Year: 1998

Overview: Ocarina of Time revolutionized action RPGs with its innovative 3D gameplay and deep storytelling, featuring the journey of Link to save Hyrule.

Why Revisit? Its influential design has left a lasting impact on the gaming industry. The recent remastered and ported versions allow both new players and veterans to enjoy its timeless gameplay.

Key Features:

• Time Travel Mechanic: Players manipulate time, affecting puzzles and gameplay.
• Rich World Design: Hyrule offers diverse regions full of quests, characters, and secrets.
• Iconic Music: The ocarina’s melodies are integral to both the narrative and gameplay, enhancing the experience.

9. The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky

Release Year: 2004

Overview: This RPG is known for its meticulous world-building and intricate character development, offering a layered narrative filled with political intrigue.

Why Revisit? Trails in the Sky is part of a larger narrative universe that has grown since its release, making it a great starting point for new players or a nostalgic revisit for longtime fans.

Key Features:

• Detailed Character interrelations: Character interactions explore relationships and growth superbly, adding emotional weight.
• Tactical Combat System: Combines turn-based mechanics with strategic positioning.
• Rich Lore and Storytelling: Engage in a captivating narrative intertwined with personal stories.

10. EarthBound

Release Year: 1994

Overview: EarthBound is a quirky RPG that flips traditional RPG tropes on their head, featuring modern settings and unique humor.

Why Revisit? Its distinct style and memorable soundtrack make it a cult classic, cherished for its blend of humor, character, and gameplay.

Key Features:

• Unique Visual Style: The whimsical art style sets it apart from other RPGs of the time.
• Cultural Commentary: Addresses contemporary themes and issues with humor and warmth.
• Endearing Characters: Players develop connections with the protagonists, each with their own charm.

Game Platforms for Classic RPGs

Many of these titles are available on multiple platforms, ensuring easy accessibility for both new and returning players. Key platforms include:

• PC: Often available through platforms like Steam or GOG, ensuring compatibility with modern systems.
• Consoles: Some classics have been remastered for current-generation consoles like the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation.
• Mobile: Many classic RPGs are available on iOS and Android, perfect for gaming on the go.

Final Tips

When revisiting these classic RPGs, consider:

• Utilizing Guides: For deeper engagement with storylines and quests, guides can help uncover hidden content and enhance the overall experience.
• Exploring Mods: Many PC games have thriving mod communities that can enhance gameplay, graphics, and content.
• Engaging with Communities: Joining online forums or social media groups can enrich the experience by connecting with fellow fans and discussing strategies, lore, and gameplay.

These timeless RPGs invite players to lose themselves in captivating worlds filled with adventure and discovery, making them incredibly worthy of revisiting in 2024.